Simultaneous prediction of rock matrix modulus and critical porosity

Abstract

The matrix modulus and critical porosity in rocks are two critical parameters to seismic rock physics models; however, the critical porosity is difficult to obtain. Based on the linear relation between the effective bulk modulus and porosity, we propose a fast method for calculating the matrix modulus and critical porosity by least square fitting of effective bulk modulus and porosity data measured in laboratory or field. The proposed method is well suited for samples with wide porosity range. The calculation results accurately reflect the differences in clay content, pressure, and saturation state. Samples with high clay content have low matrix modulus and critical porosity. The matrix modulus is independent of pressure, whereas the critical porosity increases with increasing pressure. The calculated matrix modulus for water-saturated samples is higher than that for dry rock samples.